Cardiovascular
Red Yeast Rice (Monacolin K)
Also known as: Monascus purpureus · Lovastatin (natural) · Monacolin K
Contains monacolin K — chemically identical to lovastatin. Reduces LDL by 20–30%. A natural statin with the same benefits and the same interaction risks as prescription statins.
Effective Dose
1200–2400mg / day
per clinical evidence
Evidence Level
Strong
Cardiovascular
Mechanism
HMG-CoA reductase inhibition (identical to statin mechanism)
primary action
Best For
LDL cholesterol reduction
Cardiovascular risk, Statin intolerance
This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.
What Is Red Yeast Rice (Monacolin K)?
Red yeast rice is produced by fermenting white rice with Monascus purpureus mould. It contains monacolins, particularly monacolin K — structurally identical to lovastatin (a prescription statin). Some countries regulate it as a drug; in others it is sold as a supplement. It reduces LDL by 20–30% via the same mechanism as pharmaceutical statins.
How It Works: The Science
Monacolin K competitively inhibits HMG-CoA reductase — the rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis in the liver. This reduces hepatic cholesterol production, upregulates LDL receptors (increasing LDL clearance from blood), and lowers VLDL secretion. The effect is identical to lovastatin — because it is lovastatin.
Primary Mechanism
HMG-CoA reductase inhibition (identical to statin mechanism)
Evidence-Based Benefits
Dosage Guide
Effective Dose
1200–2400mg / day
1200–2400mg/day (providing 10–20mg monacolin K). Standardised products specify monacolin K content. Take at night (cholesterol synthesis peaks overnight). Always combine with CoQ10 (statins deplete it).
Safety Profile & Side Effects
Same safety considerations as prescription statins: myopathy (muscle pain/weakness), rare rhabdomyolysis, liver enzyme elevation, and drug interactions (CYP3A4). Do not combine with prescription statins. Monitor liver enzymes and CK periodically. Not safe in pregnancy.
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It
Those with elevated LDL who prefer or tolerate a natural approach, or those who cannot tolerate prescription statins (though myopathy risk is similar). Always use with medical oversight and CoQ10.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Ingredients
Medical Disclaimer
Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →